Educational Media Reviews Online

Turtles evolved during the Triassic period, making them the oldest living reptile on earth. The painted turtle is part of this evolutionary success story and is found throughout the North American continent. Creatures of the Sun: A Natural History of the Painted Turtle follows the midland sub-species of the painted turtle, as well as fellow marsh inhabitants, through the four seasons. The midland sub-species of the painted turtle survives six months of freezing winter weather by drastically slowing it's metabolic rate and entering a state of torpor, or hibernation. These turtles over-winter at the bottom of frozen ponds until day length and warmth signal them to emerge from their torpor. At the same time, young from the previous year undergo a similar hibernation in their land-based nests where they have hatched from their shells prior to the onset of winter. In the spring, young turtles leave their nests and seek the safety of water without any parental assistance. Courtship and mating in the painted turtle takes place approximately two weeks after the pond ice melts. The female deposits her eggs in a land-based nest, and the cycle begins again.

Creatures of the Sun is remarkably informative and entertaining. The filming is quite beautiful, particularly the footage of the painted turtle's courtship dance. Close-up footage of a female burying eggs illustrates the great dexterity of the turtle's hind limb. Good editing and text make for a seamless presentation. Creatures of the Sun carries a subtle message of conservation, describing the importance of wetlands for a variety of species but also suggesting that the painted turtle may be threatened if wetlands are drained, filled or encroached upon by human activities.

This is one of the best educational videos and is highly recommended for school and public libraries. It includes an informational insert including turtle facts, some suggestions for classroom projects and a list of suggested readings. Creatures of the Sun profiles the life cycle of the midland sub-species, but will also be informative for those familiar with other sub-species of the painted turtle that do not undergo winter hibernation. It is easy to see why this film won a "Gold Plaque" at the Chicago International Film Festival.